Is ‘Nathan’ a Biblical Name?

Is Nathan a biblical name?

I’m pleased to confirm that Nathan is a biblical name with rich significance in Scripture. I can assure you that the name Nathan appears multiple times in both the Old and New Testaments.

The name Nathan is most prominently associated with the prophet who served during the reigns of King David and King Solomon. This Nathan plays a crucial role in several pivotal moments in Israel’s history, which we’ll explore further in a moment. But he’s not the only Nathan mentioned in the Bible.

In fact, the name appears in various contexts throughout Scripture. For instance, in the genealogy of Jesus presented in the Gospel of Luke, we find a Nathan listed as one of David’s sons (Luke 3:31). This is not the prophet Nathan, but rather another son of David mentioned in 2 Samuel 5:14 and 1 Chronicles 3:5.

We also encounter the name Nathan in the Old Testament as one of David’s mighty warriors (2 Samuel 23:36) and as the father of one of Solomon’s chief officials (1 Kings 4:5). In the New Testament, Nathan appears in the lineage of Jesus recorded by Luke, as I mentioned earlier.

Psychologically the recurrence of this name across different generations and contexts in the Bible is fascinating. It suggests a certain enduring quality to the name, perhaps reflecting its positive associations or the respect accorded to the prophet Nathan.

I find it meaningful that the name Nathan bridges the Old and New Testaments, appearing in the lineage of Jesus. This continuity reminds us of the unbroken narrative of salvation history, from the time of David to the coming of Christ.

The use of biblical names like Nathan has been a common practice among Christians for centuries. This tradition reflects a desire to connect one’s child with the rich heritage of faith and to invoke the qualities associated with biblical figures. Parents often select names based on their meanings and stories, hoping to inspire similar virtues in their children. For instance, the phrase ‘jaden biblical significance explained‘ highlights the importance of understanding the values tied to names, as many believe that these meanings can shape a child’s character and destiny. This trend underscores a deep-rooted belief that names carry weight and provide a spiritual foundation for a person’s life journey.

In our modern context, the name Nathan continues to be popular among Christian families. I’ve observed how parents often choose names with the hope of imparting certain qualities or blessings to their children. The biblical Nathan, known for his wisdom and courage in speaking truth to power, provides an admirable namesake.

So, when we encounter someone named Nathan today, we can appreciate that they bear a name with deep biblical roots and rich spiritual significance. It’s a name that carries echoes of prophetic boldness, royal lineage, and the continuity of God’s plan throughout history.

What does the name Nathan mean in Hebrew?

Ah, the meaning of names in Hebrew is always a fascinating subject, rich with layers of significance. I find great depth in exploring the etymologies of biblical names, as they often provide insight into the character or role of the individual.

The name Nathan (נָתָן in Hebrew) has a beautifully straightforward yet powerful meaning. It translates directly to “He has given” or “Gift.” This meaning stems from the Hebrew verb נָתַן (nathan), which means “to give.” The name is in the perfect tense, indicating a completed action, thus implying “He (God) has given.”

This meaning carries major theological weight. In the Judeo-Christian tradition, we understand all good things as gifts from God. The name Nathan, then, serves as a constant reminder of God’s generosity and providence. It’s a name that inherently acknowledges the giver behind all gifts.

Psychologically names that carry meanings of gift or blessing can have a positive impact on an individual’s self-perception. Growing up with the knowledge that one’s name means “gift” can foster a sense of being valued and cherished. It can also instill a sense of purpose – if one is a gift, then surely there is a reason for one’s existence.

In the biblical context, the meaning of Nathan takes on additional layers of significance when we consider the role of the prophet Nathan. As one who spoke God’s words to the king, Nathan truly was a “gift” from God to the people, providing divine guidance and maintaining spiritual accountability for the nation’s leaders.

It’s interesting to note that in Hebrew thought, names were often seen as more than mere labels. They were believed to carry something of the essence of the person or reflect their destiny. In this light, the name Nathan could be understood not just as describing a past action of God (He has given) but as a continuous state of being – this person is a gift, an ongoing manifestation of God’s generosity.

I find it beautiful to reflect on how this concept of “gift” is central to our faith. We believe in a God who is constantly giving – giving life, giving grace, and ultimately giving His own Son for our salvation. The name Nathan encapsulates this fundamental aspect of God’s nature.

In our Christian understanding, we are called to imitate God’s generosity, to become “givers” ourselves. Those who bear the name Nathan might feel a special call to embody this aspect of God’s character, to be generous and giving in their own lives.

In our modern context, where materialism and self-centeredness often prevail, the name Nathan stands as a counter-cultural reminder. It points us back to the truth that we are not self-made, but rather recipients of divine gifts. It calls us to gratitude and to a recognition of our dependence on God.

So, when we encounter the name Nathan, we’re reminded of a powerful theological truth – that we live in a universe characterized by divine generosity. It’s a name that speaks of grace, of unearned favor, of the fundamental goodness at the heart of existence. Whether one bears this name or simply reflects on its meaning, Nathan invites us into a posture of gratitude and an awareness of the giftedness of life.

Who are some important people named Nathan in the Bible?

Let’s begin with the most well-known Nathan – the prophet who served during the reigns of King David and King Solomon. This Nathan plays a pivotal role in some of the most dramatic moments of David’s reign. He’s the one who confronts David over his sin with Bathsheba, delivering the parable of the rich man and the poor man’s lamb (2 Samuel 12:1-15). This act of speaking truth to power, even at great personal risk, marks Nathan as a figure of remarkable courage and integrity.

Nathan also appears at crucial junctures in the succession of David’s throne. He works with Bathsheba to ensure that Solomon becomes king (1 Kings 1:11-40), fulfilling God’s promise to David. Later, he’s mentioned as one of the chroniclers of David’s reign (1 Chronicles 29:29), suggesting he played a role in preserving Israel’s history.

Psychologically Nathan’s role as a truth-teller and advisor to the king is fascinating. He demonstrates the delicate balance required when one must confront those in power – firm in conviction yet diplomatic in approach. His actions provide a model for how to handle difficult conversations and maintain integrity in complex social and political situations.

Another major Nathan is one of David’s sons, mentioned in 2 Samuel 5:14 and 1 Chronicles 3:5. Although we don’t know much about this Nathan’s personal story, his inclusion in David’s lineage is noteworthy. In fact, in Luke’s genealogy of Jesus (Luke 3:31), it’s through this Nathan, rather than Solomon, that Jesus’ line is traced. This inclusion reminds us of God’s unexpected ways – the son who doesn’t become king nonetheless plays a crucial role in the lineage of the Messiah.

We also encounter a Nathan among David’s mighty warriors (2 Samuel 23:36). Although we have no specific stories about this Nathan, his inclusion in this elite group speaks to his valor and loyalty. From a Catholic perspective, we might see in these mighty men a prefigurement of the spiritual warriors called to serve Christ, our ultimate King.

In the time of Solomon, we meet another Nathan – the father of two of Solomon’s chief officials, Azariah and Zabud (1 Kings 4:5). Zabud is described as a “priest” and the “king’s friend,” suggesting that this Nathan’s family held a position of major influence in Solomon’s court.

Lastly, in the post-exilic period, we find a Nathan listed among those who returned from Babylon with Ezra (Ezra 8:16). This Nathan is described as a “leading man,” indicating his importance in the community of returning exiles.

I find it intriguing to consider how these various Nathans – prophet, prince, warrior, father of officials, community leader – might have understood their name’s meaning of “gift.” Each, in their own way, seems to have been a gift to their community, fulfilling vital roles in Israel’s national and spiritual life.

From a Catholic perspective, we can see in these various Nathans a reflection of the diverse ways God calls His people to serve. Whether through prophetic witness, royal lineage, military prowess, or community leadership, each Nathan played a part in God’s unfolding plan.

In reflecting on these biblical Nathans, we’re reminded of the layered nature of God’s gifts to His people. Each of us, like these Nathans of old, is called to be a “gift” in our own unique way, contributing to God’s ongoing work in the world.

What role did the prophet Nathan play in King David’s life?

The relationship between the prophet Nathan and King David is one of the most compelling in Scripture, rich with psychological and spiritual insights. I find their interactions to be a powerful study in mentorship, accountability, and the delicate balance of power and truth.

Nathan enters David’s story at a crucial juncture, appearing first in 2 Samuel 7. Here, we see Nathan initially affirming David’s desire to build a temple for God. But God speaks to Nathan that night, revealing a different plan. Nathan then returns to David, humbly correcting his earlier statement and delivering God’s covenant promise to establish David’s dynasty. This episode reveals Nathan’s role as a mediator between God and the king, and his willingness to admit when he’s mistaken – a trait crucial for any advisor or spiritual guide.

The most famous interaction between Nathan and David comes in 2 Samuel 12, following David’s sin with Bathsheba. Nathan confronts David using a parable about a rich man who takes a poor man’s only lamb. When David reacts with anger at this injustice, Nathan boldly declares, “You are the man!” (2 Samuel 12:7). This moment is psychologically brilliant – Nathan allows David to judge himself before revealing the true subject of the parable.

Nathan’s approach is masterful. He uses storytelling to bypass David’s defenses, allowing the king to see his actions objectively before confronting him directly. This method of indirect confrontation can be highly effective in therapy, helping clients recognize their own behaviors or thought patterns without immediately becoming defensive.

Nathan’s courage in confronting the king is remarkable. Speaking truth to power is always risky, but Nathan’s commitment to God’s truth outweighs his fear of royal retribution. I see in Nathan a model of prophetic witness – someone willing to stand for God’s truth even when it’s uncomfortable or dangerous.

Nathan’s role doesn’t end with confrontation, however. He also delivers God’s forgiveness to David, along with the consequences of his actions. This dual message of mercy and justice reflects the complex nature of God’s relationship with His people, a theme that runs throughout Scripture and finds its ultimate expression in Christ.

Later, we see Nathan playing a crucial role in ensuring Solomon’s succession to the throne (1 Kings 1). Working with Bathsheba, Nathan orchestrates events to remind David of his promise to make Solomon king. This political maneuvering might seem at odds with Nathan’s prophetic role, but it demonstrates his commitment to seeing God’s will fulfilled, even through human political processes.

I’m struck by the long-term nature of Nathan’s relationship with David. He’s not just a one-time truth-teller, but a consistent presence in David’s life, offering guidance, correction, and support over many years. This kind of enduring mentorship can be incredibly powerful in shaping a person’s character and decisions.

From a Catholic perspective, we might see in Nathan a prefigurement of the role of spiritual directors or confessors – those who help us see our blind spots, confront our sins, and guide us back to God’s path. His ability to balance loyalty to the king with ultimate loyalty to God’s truth is a model for how we might navigate complex relationships and conflicting loyalties in our own lives.

Nathan’s influence extends beyond David’s lifetime. He’s mentioned as one of the chroniclers of David’s reign (1 Chronicles 29:29), suggesting he played a role in shaping how David’s story would be remembered. This reminds us of the power of narrative in shaping not just individual lives, but the identity of entire communities.

Nathan serves as David’s conscience, God’s messenger, and a guardian of Israel’s covenant. His layered role in David’s life demonstrates the vital importance of having people in our lives who can speak truth to us, call us to account, and help us align our lives with God’s will.

Are there any lessons we can learn from Nathan’s actions in the Bible?

The actions of the prophet Nathan in the Bible offer a wealth of lessons that are as relevant today as they were in ancient Israel. I find Nathan’s example particularly instructive for navigating complex moral situations and maintaining integrity in our relationships and social roles.

Nathan’s confrontation with David over his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12) provides a masterclass in speaking truth to power. Nathan demonstrates remarkable courage in confronting the king, risking his position and potentially his life to deliver God’s message. This teaches us the importance of moral courage – the willingness to stand for what’s right, even when it’s difficult or dangerous. In our own lives, we may face situations where we need to confront wrongdoing, whether in our personal relationships, workplaces, or broader society. Nathan’s example encourages us to find the strength to do so.

But it’s not just Nathan’s courage that’s instructive, but also his method. He approaches David indirectly, using a parable to help the king see his actions objectively before confronting him directly. This teaches us the value of wisdom and tact in difficult conversations. I often encourage clients to consider how they deliver hard truths. Nathan’s approach reminds us that how we say something can be as important as what we say.

Another crucial lesson from Nathan is the importance of maintaining ultimate loyalty to God’s truth, even when it conflicts with loyalty to human authorities. Nathan serves the king, but he serves God first. This balance of loyalties is something many of us struggle with, whether in our professional lives, our civic duties, or even in our church communities. Nathan’s example encourages us to always prioritize God’s truth and justice.

Nathan’s long-term relationship with David also teaches us about the value of consistent mentorship and accountability. He’s not just a one-time truth-teller but a consistent presence in David’s life. This reminds us of the importance of having people in our lives who know us well enough to challenge us when necessary and support us in our growth. As Catholics, we might see in this a model for spiritual direction or the role of a confessor.

The prophet’s willingness to admit when he’s mistaken, as seen in 2 Samuel 7 when he initially approves David’s plan to build the temple but then returns with a different message from God, teaches us the importance of humility and flexibility. It’s a reminder that even those in spiritual authority can be mistaken and need to be open to correction.

Nathan’s role in ensuring Solomon’s succession (1 Kings 1) demonstrates the sometimes complex interplay between spiritual and political realities. Although we might be tempted to see spiritual matters as entirely separate from worldly concerns, Nathan’s actions remind us that sometimes fulfilling God’s will requires engaging with political and social systems.

Psychologically Nathan’s actions provide insight into effective confrontation and conflict resolution. His approach with David – allowing the king to come to his own realization of wrongdoing – is often more effective than direct accusation. This method can be valuable in therapy, education, and personal relationships.

As Catholics, we can see in Nathan a model of prophetic witness. He embodies the call to be “in the world but not of the world” (John 17:14-15), engaging with the powers of his day but always from a stance rooted in God’s truth. His example challenges us to consider how we might bear witness to God’s truth in our own contexts.

Finally, Nathan’s role as a chronicler of David’s reign (1 Chronicles 29:29) reminds us of the power of storytelling and the importance of preserving and interpreting our history. This encourages us to reflect on how we narrate our own lives and our community’s history, and how these narratives shape our identity and actions.

Nathan’s actions in the Bible offer lessons in courage, wisdom, loyalty, humility, effective communication, and the integration of faith with social and political realities. His example challenges us to live with integrity, to speak truth with both boldness and tact, and to maintain our commitment to God’s truth even in complex and challenging situations.

How common is the name Nathan among Christians today?

When we consider the prevalence of the name Nathan among Christians in our modern world, we find ourselves reflecting on the beautiful ways God’s word continues to inspire and shape our communities.

The name Nathan, with its rich biblical heritage, remains a popular choice for Christian parents across many cultures. In the United States, for example, Nathan has consistently ranked among the top 100 names for boys over the past few decades. This popularity extends to other predominantly Christian nations as well.

What’s particularly interesting from a psychological perspective is the motivation behind choosing this name. Parents often select Nathan not just for its pleasing sound, but for its powerful meaning – “gift from God” or “He has given.” This choice reflects a deep sense of gratitude and recognition of the divine gift that each child represents.

In many Christian communities, we see a trend of returning to biblical names, seeking to connect children with the vast web of our faith’s history. Nathan, as a name associated with a respected prophet and advisor to King David, carries with it a sense of wisdom and moral integrity that many parents wish to impart to their children.

But the popularity of names can vary significantly between different Christian denominations and cultural contexts. In some traditional Orthodox communities, for instance, we might find a preference for saints’ names, while in certain Protestant circles, Old Testament names like Nathan might be more common.

What’s truly fascinating is how the use of this name creates a living connection between modern Christians and our biblical heritage. Each time a child is named Nathan, it’s as if a small bridge is built between our present and our spiritual past.

I’m always moved by the thoughtfulness parents put into naming their children. It’s a powerful act of faith and hope – a declaration of the parents’ beliefs and aspirations for their child’s future. In choosing a name like Nathan, they’re not just giving their child a label, but imparting a blessing and a mission.

What did the Church Fathers teach about Nathan and his role in the Bible?

The Fathers recognized Nathan as a prophet of exceptional courage and integrity. St. Augustine, in his reflections on the Psalms, praised Nathan’s boldness in confronting King David about his sin with Bathsheba. Augustine saw in this act a model for how the Church should speak truth to power, even at great personal risk.

St. John Chrysostom, known for his eloquent preaching, often used Nathan as an example of how to correct others with wisdom and tact. He noted how Nathan approached David with a parable, allowing the king to condemn himself before revealing the true nature of his transgression. Chrysostom saw this as a masterful display of pastoral care – firm in its moral stance, yet gentle in its approach.

The Fathers also saw in Nathan a prefigurement of Christ’s role as the ultimate prophet. St. Ambrose of Milan, in his writings on repentance, drew parallels between Nathan’s confrontation with David and Christ’s call for all to repent. He saw Nathan’s role as preparing the way for the greater prophet to come.

Interestingly, some of the Fathers, like Origen, saw in Nathan’s name – meaning “gift” – a symbolic representation of the gift of prophecy itself. They taught that Nathan’s very existence was a gift from God to His people, providing guidance and correction when they strayed from the path of righteousness.

Psychologically what’s fascinating is how the Fathers understood Nathan’s role in David’s spiritual journey. They saw in this relationship a model for spiritual direction and the importance of having someone in our lives who can speak truth to us, even when it’s difficult to hear.

St. Gregory the Great, in his pastoral rule, used Nathan as an example of how spiritual leaders should balance mercy and justice. He noted how Nathan, after confronting David, also assured him of God’s forgiveness, demonstrating the dual role of the prophet as both challenger and comforter.

The Fathers also saw in Nathan a key figure in the Messianic prophecies. They pointed to Nathan’s oracle to David in 2 Samuel 7, where he speaks of an everlasting kingdom, as a crucial link in the chain of prophecies leading to Christ. St. Justin Martyr, in his dialogue with Trypho, used this prophecy as evidence of Jesus’ Messianic identity.

Are there any connections between the name Nathan and Jesus in the Bible?

The most direct connection between Nathan and Jesus is found in the genealogies of Christ. In Luke’s Gospel, we find Nathan listed as an ancestor of Jesus through Mary’s line (Luke 3:31). This inclusion is major not just as a historical fact, but as a theological statement about Jesus’ connection to the Davidic dynasty.

Remember, that Nathan the prophet played a crucial role in God’s covenant with David. It was through Nathan that God promised David an everlasting kingdom (2 Samuel 7:12-16). This promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, the eternal King. So, in a sense, Nathan’s very name in Jesus’ genealogy serves as a reminder of this ancient promise and its fulfillment in Christ.

The meaning of Nathan’s name – “gift” or “He has given” – resonates deeply with the Christian understanding of Jesus as God’s ultimate gift to humanity. As John 3:16 reminds us, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son.” In this light, we can see Nathan’s name as a foreshadowing of the greater gift to come.

Psychologically it’s fascinating to consider how these connections might have shaped early Christian understanding of Jesus’ identity. The inclusion of Nathan in Jesus’ lineage would have provided a powerful link to the respected prophet and the promises he conveyed, helping to establish Jesus’ credentials as the long-awaited Messiah.

Another interesting connection lies in the prophetic role both Nathan and Jesus fulfilled. Nathan, as we know, spoke God’s truth to power, confronting even King David when he strayed from God’s path. Jesus, in His earthly ministry, took on a similar prophetic role, challenging the religious and political authorities of His time and calling all to repentance and faith in God.

We can also see a parallel in the way both Nathan and Jesus used parables to convey deep spiritual truths. Nathan’s parable of the rich man and the poor man’s lamb (2 Samuel 12:1-4) bears similarities to Jesus’ teaching style, using everyday scenarios to illuminate moral and spiritual principles.

It’s worth noting, too, that just as Nathan played a key role in establishing Solomon as David’s successor (1 Kings 1:11-40), Jesus established His Church as the continuation of God’s kingdom on earth. Both acted as kingmakers in a sense, though Jesus’ kingdom is, of course, of an entirely different order.

How can Christians apply the meaning of Nathan to their faith?

Let us consider the fundamental truth that Nathan’s name points to – everything we have is a gift from God. This realization can revolutionize our perspective on life. When we truly internalize this, gratitude becomes not just an occasional sentiment, but a constant state of being. Each breath, each moment, each relationship becomes an opportunity to recognize and appreciate God’s generosity.

This attitude of gratitude has tremendous power. Research has shown that grateful people tend to be happier, more resilient, and better equipped to handle life’s challenges. By embracing the “Nathan perspective,” we open ourselves to a more joyful and fulfilling life.

Understanding ourselves as gifts from God can profoundly impact our sense of self-worth and purpose. In a world that often measures value by productivity or achievement, remembering that we are inherently valuable as God’s gifts can be deeply healing. This perspective encourages us to treat ourselves and others with the respect and care befitting a divine gift.

The name Nathan also challenges us to reflect on how we are using the gifts God has given us. Are we, like the biblical Nathan, using our voices to speak truth and promote justice? Are we using our talents and resources to build God’s kingdom? This introspection can lead to a more purposeful and impactful Christian life.

Another application of Nathan’s meaning is in our approach to evangelism and ministry. When we see others as gifts from God, it transforms how we interact with them. Instead of seeing people as projects to be converted, we recognize the inherent value in each person, seeking to unwrap the gift that God has placed before us in every encounter.

In our prayer life, the concept of Nathan can enrich our communion with God. We can cultivate a practice of not just asking God for things, but recognizing and naming the gifts He has already given us. This practice can lead to a more balanced and mature prayer life, one that is as much about listening and appreciating as it is about petitioning.

For parents, the meaning of Nathan offers a beautiful framework for child-rearing. Viewing children as gifts from God can inspire a parenting style that is more patient, more appreciative, and more focused on nurturing the unique qualities of each child.

In our stewardship of the earth, the Nathan perspective reminds us that the world itself is a gift from God. This can motivate us to be more responsible in our use of resources and more committed to caring for the environment.

Lastly, let us not forget that the ultimate application of Nathan’s meaning is in recognizing Jesus as God’s greatest gift to us. This recognition should color everything we do, inspiring us to live lives of joyful obedience and loving service.

Are there any other biblical names similar in meaning to Nathan?

Let’s begin with the name Jonathan, which means “Yahweh has given.” This name is strikingly similar to Nathan in both its meaning and its recognition of God as the giver of all good things. Jonathan, as you may recall, was the son of King Saul and the beloved friend of David. His name, like Nathan’s, serves as a constant reminder of God’s generosity.

Another name with a similar theme is Matthew, which means “gift of Yahweh.” Matthew, one of the twelve apostles and the author of the first Gospel, bore a name that echoed the same sentiment as Nathan. It’s fascinating from a psychological perspective to consider how bearing such a name might have influenced Matthew’s understanding of his own calling and mission.

The name Theodore, though Greek in origin, appears in various forms in the Bible and means “gift of God.” While not as common in Scripture as Nathan or Matthew, it carries the same powerful message of divine bestowal.

Nathanael, meaning “God has given,” is another name that closely aligns with Nathan. You might remember Nathanael as the disciple whom Jesus described as an Israelite in whom there was no deceit (John 1:47). His name, like Nathan’s, speaks to the idea of being a gift from God.

The female name Hannah, meaning “grace” or “favor,” also carries a connotation of divine giving. Hannah’s story in the Bible, particularly her prayer for a child and her subsequent dedication of Samuel to the Lord, beautifully illustrates the concept of both receiving and giving back to God.

John, a name meaning “Yahweh is gracious,” while not directly meaning “gift,” implies God’s generous nature. The apostle John, in particular, emphasizes God’s love and grace throughout his writings.

Interestingly, the name Ishmael, meaning “God hears,” while different in literal meaning, carries a similar sentiment of divine responsiveness and provision. It reminds us that God not only gives but also listens to His people.

From a broader perspective, we can see that many biblical names carry themes of God’s generosity, provision, and grace. Names like Elijah (“My God is Yahweh”), Samuel (“Name of God” or “God has heard”), and Joshua (“Yahweh is salvation”) all speak to different aspects of God’s giving nature.

I find it fascinating to consider how these names might have shaped the self-understanding and faith of those who bore them. Imagine growing up with a name that constantly reminds you that you are a gift from God, or that God is gracious, or that God hears. Such names could serve as powerful anchors of faith and identity.

Let this reflection inspire us to live up to the meaning of these names. May we, like Nathan, be gifts to those around us. May we, like Jonathan, be loyal friends. May we, like Matthew, be willing to leave everything to follow Christ. And may we, like all these biblical figures, live in constant awareness of God’s generosity and grace.

Remember, that regardless of the name we bear, each of us is a gift from God, uniquely created and deeply loved. Let us live each day in gratitude for this powerful truth.

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Bibliography:

Ahlgren, B., Dannewitz, C., Imbrenda, C., Kutscher, D., & Ohlman, B. (2012). A survey of information-centric networking. IEEE Communications Magazine